Legislative leaders have reached a deal for the State of Michigan’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget that will include $7m in additional funding for the Michigan Gaming Control Board. This now heads to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s desk to await signature, and is expected to take effect October 1.
According to the board, the funding will support “a comprehensive responsible gaming messaging campaign, direct citizens to services available for problem gambling, and extend our outreach to community organisations.”
The State of Michigan’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget is said to create “a stable funding source for charitable gaming millionaire party events”, which will address capital concerns and ensure the MGCB can continue its current level of service to charities without any increase in licensing fees.
Additional funding was approved for new MGCB positions and IT infrastructure to “assist with the surge of higher-than-expected internet gaming activity, internet sports betting, and fantasy contests”.
This, it is added, will increase network storage capacity and network speeds in MGCB casino offices to support operations, including the transfer of large regulatory files.
“I would like to thank Governor Whitmer and the legislature for their leadership and a budget deal that recognises the crucial role the MGCB plays in ensuring fair and honest gaming in the State of Michigan,” stated MGCB Executive Director, Henry Williams.
“Our 2023 budget emphasises investments to help strengthen our mission and integrity, support local charities, and educate Michigan citizens on ways to enjoy gaming responsibly.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the State of Michigan.”
